Infusion line systems

ABSTRACT

An IV-line identification system to enable ready identification of an IV line and its associated fluid source and output from other IV lines with their fluid sources and outputs. The IV-line identification system includes an optical member affixed along a longitudinal length of an elongated member that transmits light when a light source provides a light to the optical member.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.16/909,111, filed Jun. 23, 2020 and titled “INFUSION LINE SYSTEMS,”which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 16/548,067, filedAug. 22, 2019 and titled “INFUSION LINE SYSTEMS,” now granted as U.S.Pat. No. 10,722,641, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser.No. 16/053,495, filed Aug. 2, 2018 and titled “INFUSION LINE SYSTEMS,”now granted as U.S. Pat. No. 10,589,019, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 15/902,682, filed Feb. 22, 2018 and titled“INFUSION LINE SYSTEMS,” now granted as U.S. Pat. No. 10,064,991, whichis a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 15/618,799, filedJun. 9, 2017 and titled “ILLUMINATED INFUSION LINE AND SYSTEMS,” whichclaims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 62/354,617, filed Jun. 24, 2016 and titled“ILLUMINATED INFUSION LINE AND SYSTEMS,” each of the foregoing of whichare incorporated herein in their entireties.

BACKGROUND 1. The Field of the Invention

The present disclosure generally relates to systems for the intravenousadministration of medications, fluids, and/or nutrients. Moreparticularly, the disclosure relates to systems and devices fordistinctly identifying each of several intravenous lines used tointravenously administer medications, fluids, and/or nutrients.

2. The Relevant Technology

In a hospital setting, patients are often administered liquidmedications, fluids, and nutrients (hereinafter collectively referred toas “therapeutic fluids”) via intravenous lines (hereinafter referred toas “IV lines”). IV lines generally consist of flexible, plastic tubingconnected at one end to a fluid source and at another end to a needle orport that provides access to a blood vessel/artery of a patient. It isnot uncommon for multiple IV lines, each connected to a different sourceof fluid, to be used simultaneously to deliver several therapeuticfluids at once to a single patient. It is also not uncommon for theneedles or ports to be located adjacent to one another, such as multipleadjacent needles providing access into the brachial vein running throughthe arm of the patient.

While the simultaneous use of multiple IV lines can provide numerousbenefits, some challenges can also be encountered. For instance, whenmultiple IV lines are used to administer multiple therapeutic fluids toa single patient, it can become cumbersome and difficult to readilyidentify one IV line from another. Thus, it can be difficult to quicklyand accurately identify a particular therapeutic fluid source andcorresponding therapeutic fluid output compared to another medicationsource and its corresponding therapeutic fluid output. This problem isaggravated by the tendency of each of the intravenous lines to coil upto their packaged configuration and consequently tangle with other IVlines or tangle under bed sheets or clothing.

Quick identification of a particular therapeutic fluid source is oftenrequired in emergency situations. For example, when a patient hooked upto multiple IV lines is in need of emergency intravenous administrationof a therapeutic fluid not currently being provided through one of theIV lines, it is necessary to immediately provide that therapeutic fluid.If a blood vessel cannot rapidly be located into which the therapeuticfluid can be injected, it is common practice to provide the drug throughan IV line in which a therapeutic fluid is already being administered.This practice of using existing IV lines to administer new therapeuticfluids is also common in non-emergency situations. The personadministering the drug, however, must be sure that the IV line throughwhich the new therapeutic fluid is administered is carrying atherapeutic fluid which is compatible with the new therapeutic fluid.Severe results may occur if a new therapeutic fluid is injected throughan IV line in which the therapeutic fluid already flowing therethroughis not compatible with the new therapeutic fluid. For example, ifheparin is injected into an IV line through which lidocaine is alreadyflowing, a flakey precipitate will form in the mixture which can bedangerous to a patient. Similarly, mixing insulin with certainchemotherapy drugs in a common IV line can be extremely dangerous for apatient.

As a result of the difficulties in distinguishing between multiple IVlines and their associated fluid sources and outputs and the potentiallylife-threatening possibilities that can occur if incompatibletherapeutic fluids are injected through the same IV line, there is aneed for devices and systems that allow for ready and accurateidentification of individual IV lines with their associated fluidsources and outputs.

BRIEF SUMMARY

In an embodiment, an intravenous infusion line assembly includes anelongated member and an optical member. The elongated member has a fluidconduit for administering therapeutic fluid to a patient by providingfluid communication between a first end of the elongated member and asecond end of the elongated member. The optical member is affixed alonga longitudinal length of the elongated member between the first end andthe second end of the elongated member. The optical member is also atleast partially optically transmissive to internally reflect lightwithin the optical member.

In another embodiment, an intravenous infusion line identificationsystem includes an intravenous therapy system for administeringtherapeutic fluid to a patient and a light source. The intravenoustherapy system includes a therapeutic fluid input and a therapeuticfluid output with an elongated member and optical member. The elongatedmember provides fluid communication from the therapeutic fluid input tothe therapeutic fluid output. The optical member is affixed along alongitudinal length of the elongated member. The optical member is alsoat least partially optically transmissive to internally reflect lightwithin the optical member. In some configurations, the optical member isaffixed along the longitudinal length of the elongated member by adirect bond, an adhesive, or a partial melting between the opticalmember and the elongated member. The light source is selectivelycouplable to the optical member and configured to provide light to theoptical member.

In yet another embodiment, a method for implementing an IV-lineidentification system includes an act of providing an infusion line thatincludes an optical member affixed along a longitudinal length of theinfusion line, selectively coupling a light source to the opticalmember, and directing a light from the light source into the opticalmember. In some implementations, the optical member is at leastpartially optically transmissive to internally reflect light within theoptical member.

These and other objects and features of the present invention willbecome more fully apparent from the following description and appendedclaims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forthhereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To further clarify the above and other advantages and features of thepresent invention, a more particular description of the invention willbe rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which areillustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that thesedrawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and aretherefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention willbe described and explained with additional specificity and detailthrough the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic view of an embodiment of an intravenous(“IV”) infusion line assembly, according to the present disclosure,where a first light component is a light source and where a second lightcomponent is an optical member operatively coupled to the light sourcesuch that both the first and second light components provide synchronousvisual identifiers;

FIG. 2 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view of the embodimentof an IV infusion line assembly of FIG. 1, according to the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3A illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of the IVinfusion line assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3B illustrates a top view of an embodiment of the IV infusion lineassembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3C illustrates a right side view of an embodiment of the IVinfusion line assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3D illustrates a cross-sectional front view of an embodiment of theIV infusion line assembly, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 3E illustrates a perspective view of a line fastener, according tothe present disclosure;

FIG. 3F illustrates a front view of a line fastener, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3G illustrates a rear view of a line fastener, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3H illustrates a bottom view of a line fastener, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3I illustrates a top view of a line fastener, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 3J illustrates a right side view of a line fastener, according tothe present disclosure;

FIG. 3K illustrates a left side view of a line fastener, according tothe present disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a side view of an embodiment of an IV infusion lineidentification system, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an embodiment of alight source, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a partial cutaway side view of the embodiment of an IVinfusion line identification system of FIG. 4, according to the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 7A illustrates an embodiment of a light source, according to thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 7B illustrates a side view of the embodiment of a light source ofFIG. 7A, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is a side view of another embodiment of an IV infusion lineidentification system, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 9A is a partial cutaway side view of the embodiment of an IVinfusion line identification system of FIG. 8, according to the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 9B is a partial cutaway end view of the embodiment of an IVinfusion line identification system of FIG. 8, according to the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 10A is a transverse cross-sectional view of another embodiment ofan IV infusion line, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 10B is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the embodiment of anIV infusion line of FIG. 10A, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a side view of an embodiment of an IV infusion line with aninline filter, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 is a side view of an embodiment of an IV infusion line with aninline rotary pump, according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 illustrates another embodiment of an infusion lineidentification system where a first light component is a light sourceand where a second light component is also a light source, the lightsources being operatively coupled to one another such that both thefirst and second light components provide synchronous visualidentifiers;

FIG. 14 illustrates an embodiment of an infusion line system as in FIG.13 with the addition of a pump assembly; and

FIG. 15 is a detailed view of a light source of the system of FIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The embodiments described herein extend to methods, devices, systems,assemblies, and apparatus for identification of intravenous (“IV”)infusion lines. Such are configured to, for example, enable the reliableidentification of one IV infusion line from another in a simple andefficient manner to prevent the inadvertent injection of incompatibletherapeutic fluids through a single IV infusion line. An IV infusionline identification system, as described herein, may reduce the numberof misidentified infusion lines without significant changes to theexisting clinical methods and/or equipment.

Reference will now be made to the drawings to describe various aspectsof exemplary embodiments of the invention. It is understood that thedrawings are diagrammatic and schematic representations of suchexemplary embodiments, and are not limiting of the present invention,nor are any particular elements to be considered essential for allembodiments or that elements be assembled or manufactured in anyparticular order or manner. No inference should therefore be drawn fromthe drawings as to the necessity of any element. In the followingdescription, numerous specific details are set forth in order to providea thorough understanding of the present invention. It will be obvious,however, to one of ordinary skill in the art that the present inventionmay be practiced without these specific details. In other cases, wellknown aspects of IV lines and related devices and methods, generalmanufacturing techniques, and the like are not described in detailherein in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the novel aspects ofthe present invention.

FIGS. 1 through 12 and the following discussion are intended to providea brief general description of exemplary devices in which embodiments ofthe invention may be implemented. While IV therapy apparatuses foradministering therapeutic fluids are described below, this is but onesingle exemplary application for the present invention, and embodimentsof the invention may be implemented in other applications, both withinthe medical field and in other technical fields. Accordingly, throughoutthe specification and claims, references to medical devices and systems,such as “IV lines,” “IV bags,” “pumps,” “needles,” “ports,” “IV therapysystems,” and the like, are intended to apply broadly to any type ofitems that may need to be individually identified and distinguished fromother similar items, as described herein.

Furthermore, while embodiments of IV therapy systems are shown anddescribed, it will be understood that these are merely exemplaryembodiments. Various components of these exemplary embodiments may beexcluded or replaced with other components known and used in the art. Byway of non-limiting example, some of the exemplary embodiments includeIV bags, pumps, and connectors. Each of these components could beeliminated or replaced with other components. For instance, varioustypes of pumps, or no pump at all, can be used with the systems.Similarly, various types of fluid sources and connectors other than IVbags and Y-connectors could be employed.

With reference to FIG. 1, there is illustrated an IV infusion lineassembly 100 for use in administering therapeutic fluid to a patient.The IV infusion line assembly 100 includes an elongated member 102 witha fluid conduit thereto. The fluid conduit may provide fluidcommunication for one or more therapeutic fluids, such as saline,medications, or nutrients. The IV infusion line assembly 100 includes anoptical member 104 that is at least partially affixed to the elongatedmember 102. The optical member 104 is at least partially opticallytransmissive, such that light may pass through the optical member 104.

In some embodiments, the elongated member 102 may have a therapeuticfluid input 106 and a therapeutic fluid output 108. The therapeuticfluid input 106 may allow the elongated member to connect to a reservoirof therapeutic fluid, such as an IV bag, a glass bottle, a plasticbottle, a syringe, or other sterile reservoir. At an opposing end of theelongated member 102 is a therapeutic fluid output 108. The therapeuticfluid output is configured to connect the elongated member 102 to anaccess device (not shown), such as a needle or port, so that theelongated member 102 can provide fluid communication to a patient.

The optical member 104 has a first end 110 and a second end 112. In someembodiments, the first end 110 is located proximate the therapeuticfluid input 106 of the elongated member 102 and the second end 112 islocated proximate the therapeutic fluid output 108 of the elongatedmember 102. At least a portion of the elongated member 102 and opticalmember 104 are fixed relative to one another. The elongated member 102and optical member 104 are flexible, such that the optical member 104and elongated member 102 may move as one or the other is moved. In someembodiments, the entire length of the optical member 104 is fixed to theelongated member 102. In other embodiments, a portion less than theentire length of the optical member 104 is fixed to the elongated member102. In some embodiments, the first end 110 of the optical member 104 isfixed to the elongated member 102 and the second end 112 is fixed to theelongated member 102.

The optical member 104 may be optically transmissive to allow light topass through and/or be transmitted by the optical member 104. In someembodiments, the optical member 104 may have a transmission percentagein visible wavelengths in a range having an upper value, a lower value,or upper and lower values including any of 40%, 45%, 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%,70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, or any values therebetween. For example,the optical member 104 may have a transmission percentage in visiblewavelengths greater than 40%. In other examples, the optical member 104may have a transmission percentage in visible wavelength less than 95%.In yet other examples, the optical member 104 may have a transmissionpercentage between 40% and 95%. In further examples, the optical member104 may have a transmission percentage between 50% and 90%.

In some embodiments, the optical member 104 may be a fiber optic cable.For example, at least a portion of a light that is provided at the firstend 110 of the optical member 104 may be conveyed to the second end 112of the optical member 104. The light may be conveyed from the first end110 to the second end 112 via internal refraction. For example, theoptical member 104 may have a first index of refraction and thesurrounding environment, such as air, may have a second index ofrefraction that is less than the first index of refraction. The lightmay propagate along the inside of the optical member 104 in alongitudinal direction refracting off of the surface of the opticalmember 104 at an angle less than a critical angle, at least partiallydependent on the relationship of the first index of refraction and thesecond index of refraction. In some embodiments, the optical member 104may have an index of refraction greater than 1.5. In other embodiments,the optical member 104 may have an index of refraction greater than 1.8.In yet other embodiments, the optical member 104 may have an index ofrefraction greater than 2.0.

In some embodiments, the optical member 104 may be configured to conveyat least a portion of the light in a longitudinal direction (i.e., fromthe first end 110 to the second end 112 or vice versa). The opticalmember 104 is configured to emit at least some of the light in atransverse direction (i.e. in a direction transverse to the longitudinaldirection) and between the first end 110 and the second end 112. Forexample, when a light is provided at the first end 110 of the opticalmember 104, at least 10% of the light is emitted transversely along thelength of the optical member 104. In other examples, when a light isprovided at the first end 110 of the optical member 104, at least 20% ofthe light is emitted transversely along the length of the optical member104. In yet other examples, when a light is provided at the first end110 of the optical member 104, at least 30% of the light is emittedtransversely along the length of the optical member 104. In at least oneexample, when a light is provided at the first end 110 of the opticalmember 104, at least 50% of the light is emitted transversely along thelength of the optical member 104.

FIG. 2 illustrates a transverse cross-sectional view of the IV infusionline assembly 100 of FIG. 1. The elongated member 102 has an outersurface 114 and an inner surface 116. The inner surface 116 defines afluid conduit 118 that extends longitudinally through the elongatedmember to provide fluid communication therethrough. The fluid 120 may bea therapeutic fluid provided from a reservoir to a patient.

In some embodiments, the optical member 104 may be uniform along alength thereof. In other embodiments the optical member 104, as shown inFIG. 2, includes a plurality of scattering elements embedded in theoptical member 104 to scatter light transmitted therethrough and emitthe light through a sidewall of the optical member 104.

In some embodiments, the optical member 104 may be at least partiallyaffixed to the outer surface 114 of the elongated member 102. Forexample, the optical member 104 may be affixed to the outer surface 114of the elongated member 102 with a plurality of fasteners or clamps. Inother examples, the optical member 104 may be adhered to the outersurface 114 with an adhesive positioned therebetween. In yet otherexamples, the optical member 104 may be directly bonded to the elongatedmember 102, such as by partially melting of the optical member 104and/or elongated member 102 to bond the material of the optical member104 and elongated member 102. The optical member 104 and elongatedmember 102 may be bonded together by sonic welding, by frictionalwelding, by application of heat from an external source, or by otherpartial melting methods. Embodiments may include any combination of saidor other means for at least partially affixing the optical member 104 tothe outer surface 114 of the elongated member 102.

FIGS. 3A through 3D illustrate various views of an embodiment of the IVinfusion line assembly 100 of FIG. 1 in which the optical member 104 isat least partially coupled to the elongated member 102 with a pluralityof line fasteners 130 (also referred to herein as “rigid clamps”). Asused herein, the “rigid clamps” are “rigid” in that they do notnecessarily require moving parts for adapting to and fastening theoptical member 104 and elongated member 102. The “rigid clamps” maytherefore include an amount of flexibility inherent in the material inwhich they are made (e.g., a suitable polymer or metal material).

The rigid clamps 130 include a first opening 131 and a second opening132, each adapted to receiving the optical member 104 and the elongatedmember 102. The rigid clamps 130 have a first groove 140 adapted toremovably secure the optical member 104. The rigid clamps 130 also havea second groove 141 and a third groove 142, which are adapted to, intandem, removably secure the elongated member 102. For example, a usermay loop the optical member 104 and elongated member 102 through therespective openings 131 and 132, may position the optical member 104within the first groove 140, and may position the elongated member 102within the second groove 141 and third groove 142.

In one of arrangement, the rigid clamps 130 are spaced about six toeight inches apart along the length of the IV infusion line assembly100. Although six to eight inch spacing is the presently preferredconfiguration, other configurations may include tighter spacing (e.g., ahalf inch of space between the rigid clamps 130 along the length of theIV infusion line assembly 100), looser spacing (e.g., fourteen inches ofspace between the rigid clamps 130 along the length of the IV infusionline assembly 100), a non-uniform spacing arrangement (e.g., withvariable spacing between the rigid clamps 130 along the length of the IVinfusion line assembly 100), etcetera.

FIGS. 3E through 3K show additional views of the exemplary rigid clamp130. In the illustrated embodiment, the first groove 140 has a smallerdiameter than that of the second and third grooves 141 and 142. Such aconfiguration beneficially allows the relatively smaller optical member104 to engage with the first groove 140 while the relatively largerelongated member 102 engages with the second and third grooves 141 and142. In other embodiments, the groove sizes may be adjusted according tocorresponding sizes of elongated members and/or optical members. In someimplementations, the positions of the elongated member 102 and theoptical member 104 may be reversed. Other embodiments may additionallyor alternatively use other types of fasteners or clamps (e.g.,spring-loaded clamps, hinged clasps) to at least partially couple theoptical member 104 to the elongated member 102.

In some embodiments, the connection between the elongated member 102 andthe optical member 104 may be breakable by a user. For example, at leasta portion of the longitudinal length of the connection between theelongated member 102 and optical member 104 may be broken (e.g., theelongated member 102 and optical member 104 may be pulled apart from oneanother) to allow the use of inline filters, rotary pumps, or forconnection of other devices, as needed by a user.

For example, FIG. 4 illustrates an embodiment of an IV infusion lineidentification system with an IV infusion line assembly 200 with atleast a portion of the optical member 204 branched from the elongatedmember 202 to allow a light source 222 to connect to the optical member204. The light source 222 may be coupled to the IV infusion lineassembly 200 prior to a sterilization procedure (e.g., gamma radiation,ethylene oxide gas). Alternatively, the light source 222 may be aportable light source reusable with a plurality of IV infusion lineassemblies 200. For example, a user, such as a doctor, a nursepractitioner, a physician's assistant, etc., may carry a light source222 as described herein, and use the light source with a plurality of IVinfusion line assemblies 200 on a single patient or with multiplepatients. Typically, however, the light source 222 will be coupled tothe IV infusion line assembly 200 prior to sterilization so that thesystem may be provided to users in a sterile and ready-to-use state.

The light source 222 may be selectively coupled to the optical member204 to provide a light to the optical member 204. The light source 222may include an outboard power supply, such as a rechargeable and/orreplaceable battery, allowing the light source 222 to be carried with auser. In other embodiments, the light source 222 may have one or moreconnectors to allow the light source 222 to be connected to an externalpower source. The light source 222 may provide light to the first end210 of the optical member 204 to illuminate the optical member 204 alonga longitudinal length of the optical member 204. In other embodiments,the light source 222 may provide light to the second end (e.g., thesecond end 112 as shown in FIG. 1) of the optical member 204 andilluminate the optical member 204 along a longitudinal length of theoptical member 204.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of a light source222 of FIG. 4. The light source 222 includes an O-ring slot 250 forreceiving an O-ring 251. The O-ring 251 is adapted to removably securethe optical member 204 to provide selective coupling between the opticalmember 204 and the light source 222. Other embodiments may additionallyor alternatively use other means for effecting selective couplingbetween the optical member 204 and the light source 222 (e.g., frictionfitting, adhesive, clamps).

In some embodiments, the light source 222 may be activated by auser-operated manual switch, such as the illustrated push button 240.Although the user operable manual switch is a presently preferredembodiment, other embodiments may include systems for automaticallyactivating the light source 222 upon coupling the optical member 204 tothe light source 222, as described below with respect to FIG. 6. FIG. 6illustrates a cross-sectional view of one optional configuration of thelight source 222 of FIG. 4 which includes a sensor for automaticactuation of the light source 222 (e.g., as an alternative to a manualswitch). The light source 222 may have a light emitting diode (“LED”)224, light bulb, laser diode, or other photon source positioned adjacenta cavity 226 in the light source 222. The cavity 226 may have a sensor228 positioned in a side of the cavity 226. The sensor 228 may beconfigured to sense the presence of an optical member 204 positioned inthe cavity 226. The sensor 228 is operably coupled to the LED 224 toallow electricity to the LED 224 upon sensing the presence of the firstend 210 (or second end) of the optical member 204 in the cavity 226. Inother words, the light source 222 provides a light to the optical member204 when the user inserts a portion of the optical member 204 into thelight source 222. In some embodiments, the LED 224 may be positioned ata rear end 230 of the cavity 226. In other embodiments, the LED 224 maybe positioned at other orientations to the cavity 226.

The sensor 228 may be a physical sensor, such as a switch, toggle, orbutton that senses the optical member 204 via mechanical contact withthe optical member 204. In other embodiments, the sensor 228 may be anoptical sensor, such an infrared sensor, UV sensor, laser sensor, orother sensor that senses the optical member 204 via interference betweenthe optical member 204 and an emitted signal.

FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate another embodiment of a light source 722. Thelight source 722 may be configured in a fashion similar to that of thelight source 222 of FIG. 4 except as noted below. The light source 722may be selectively attachable to the elongated member 702 by means of afirst clip 761 with a first opening 771 facing a first direction, asecond clip 762 with a second opening 772 facing a second directionopposite the first direction, and a third clip 763 with a third opening773 facing the first direction. Other embodiments may use a single clip.In such embodiments, the single clip may extend across approximately amajority of the length of the light source 722. Other embodiments mayinclude a plurality of clips (with at least one facing an oppositedirection from one other), a plurality of clips with openings facing thesame direction, a channel groove, a plurality of channel grooves, orother structural configurations for making the light source 722selectively attachable to the elongated member 702.

In the illustrated embodiment, the clips 761, 762, and 763 are arrangedso as to be spread across a sufficient length of the light source 722 toprovide a connection when the light source 722 is coupled to theelongated member 702. For example, the distance between the first clip761 and third clip 763 may be about 50% to about 80% of the overalllength of the light source 722.

As with other embodiments described herein, the light source, as a firstlight component, may be positioned near a first end the elongated member702 (e.g., near the fluid input) and an optical member (not shown inthis view), as a second light component, may extend and be positionednear a second end of the elongated member 702 (e.g., near the fluidoutput). The first and second light components are operatively coupledto one another such that when the first light component is activated togenerate a light signal at the first end of the elongated member 702, acorresponding light signal will be generated at the second end of theelongated member 702 by way of the second light component.

FIG. 8 illustrates another embodiment of an IV infusion lineidentification system with an IV infusion line assembly 300 with a firstend 310 of the optical member 304 coupled to the elongated member 302.The light source 322 is configured to connect over the elongated member302 and the optical member 304 from the transverse direction to providelight to the first end 310 (or second end) of the optical member 304without having to decouple an end of the optical member 304 and theelongated member 302.

FIGS. 9A and 9B show detail views of the embodiment of a light source322 of FIG. 8. FIG. 9A shows a cross-sectional side view of the IVinfusion line assembly 300 positioned in the light source 322. Thecavity 326 of the light source 322 shown in FIGS. 9A and 9B isconfigured to allow the elongated member 302 to extend through the lightsource 322 while the optical member 304 terminated in the light source322 adjacent an LED 324 (or other photon source).

FIG. 9B shows an end view of the light source 322 showing a sensor 328in a wall 332 of the cavity 326 shown in FIG. 9A. Referring again toFIG. 9B, the sensor 328 may be configured to sense the presence of theelongated member 302 positioned in the light source 322. Similar to thesensor 228 described in relation to FIG. 6, the sensor 328 may be aphysical sensor, such as a switch, toggle, or button that senses theelongated member 302 via mechanical contact with the elongated member302. In other embodiments, the sensor 328 may be an optical sensor, suchan infrared sensor, UV sensor, laser sensor, or other sensor that sensesthe elongated member 302 via interference between the elongated member302 and an emitted signal.

In the depicted embodiment, the sensor 328 is depressed by the elongatedmember 302 when a force is applied to the elongated member 302 by a clip334 of the light source 322. The clip 334 may be movably connected tothe light source 322 about a hinged connection 336. The hingedconnection 336 may be biased to close the clip 334 and/or hold the clip334 closed against the light source 322. The bias of the hingedconnection 336 may apply a sufficient force through the clip 334 tocompress the elongated member 302 against the sensor 328. The bias ofthe hinged connection 336 may apply a sufficient force through the clip334 to retain the light source 322 on the elongated member 302 when auser releases the light source 322. In other words, the user may clipthe light source 322 onto the elongated member 302 and the light source322 may hang in place on the elongate member 302 without the usercontinuing to support the light source 322.

FIG. 10A illustrates a transverse cross-section of another embodiment ofan IV infusion line assembly 400. The elongated member 402 defines aconduit 418 through the center of the elongated member 402 and anoptical member 404 is positioned in contact with an outer surface of theelongated member 402. In some embodiments, the optical member 404 may befixed to the outer surface of the elongated member 402. In otherembodiments, the optical member 404 may be slidable in a longitudinaldirection relative to the elongated member 402. In other word, theoptical member 404 may be positioned circumferentially about theelongated member 402 but not fixed thereto.

FIG. 10B illustrates a longitudinal cross-section of the embodiment ofan IV infusion line assembly 400. In such embodiments, the opticalmember 404 may terminate before the end of the elongated member 402 orthe terminal end of the IV infusion line assembly 400 may be obscured orcovered by medical equipment or the patient. In such embodiment, a lightmay be provided to the optical member 404 in a transverse directionthrough one or more diffraction optical elements such as an in-couplinggrating 438 shown in FIG. 10B. The in-coupling grating 438 includes aplurality of wedges or other lenses that refract light at an angle andallow the light to propagate within the optical member 404 in alongitudinal direction.

As described herein, the optical member and the elongated member mayselectively separable to allow a user to detach at least a portion ofthe optical member from the elongated member. FIG. 11 illustrates anembodiment of an IV infusion line assembly 500 in which the opticalmember 504 has been detached from the elongated member 502 and theelongated member 502 is directed through a filter 540. The filter 540 isconfigured to filter the contents (i.e., therapeutic fluid) of theelongated member 502 while the optical member 504 continues around thefilter 540 and rejoins the elongated member 502 on the opposing side ofthe filter 540.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of an IV infusion line assembly 600 inwhich the optical member 604 has been detached from the elongated member602 and the elongated member 602 is directed through a rotary pump 642.The rotary pump 642 is configured to apply a force to the elongatedmember 602 to urge the contents (i.e., therapeutic fluid) of theelongated member 502 in the longitudinal direction. The optical member604 continues around the rotary pump 642 and rejoins the elongatedmember 602 on the opposing side of the rotary pump 642.

At least some of the embodiments of an IV infusion line described hereinallow a user to illuminate the IV infusion line using a light source toidentify a length of the IV infusion line in a clinical environment. TheIV infusion line may be disposable, elongated member and optical memberincluded, and used with conventional adapters and equipment.

FIG. 13 illustrates an alternative embodiment of an infusion lineassembly 800. As with other embodiments described herein, the infusionline assembly 800 includes an elongated member 802 and a first lightsource 822 disposed at a first end 806 of the elongated member 802(e.g., near an IV bag 860 and associated fluid input). In thisembodiment, the optical member is omitted, and instead, the infusionline assembly 800 includes a second light source 823 disposed at asecond end 808 of the elongated member 802 (e.g., near a fluid outputand patient port 862). The second light source 823 is communicativelycoupled to the first light source 822. Thus, rather than using anoptical member to transmit light generated by the first light source 822at the first end 806 to the second end 808, the illustrated embodimentutilizes the two operatively and communicatively coupled light sources822 and 823 to ensure that the light signal generated at one end of theelongated member 802 has a corresponding light signal generated at theopposite end of the elongated member 802.

The first and second light sources 822 and 823 may be operatively andcommunicatively coupled via a wireless connection/link. For example, thefirst and second light sources 822 and 823 may be paired using aBluetooth wireless link, Wi-Fi, or other suitable wireless communicationprotocol.

In use, a first light component (in the form of the first light source822) is positioned near the first end 806 of the elongated member 802and a second light component (in the form of the second light source823) is positioned near the second end 808 of the elongated member 802.The first and second light components are operatively coupled to oneanother (e.g., via a wireless communication link) so that when either isactivated, the other is likewise activated. In this manner, a user canactivate the first light source 822 or the second light source 823, andthe other light source will also automatically be activated, providing avisual indication confirming that each of ends 806 and 808 belong to thesame elongated member 802. As stated above, this visual indication canprevent infusion line misidentification and associated accidents andpatient risks. For example, a caretaker can quickly and easily use thesystem to identify which infusion line and/or medicine is attached towhich patient vein, and can thereby identify the correct setup quicklyand safely.

As shown in FIG. 14, the infusion line system can also optionallyinclude a pump assembly 842 attachable or operatively coupled to theelongated member 802. The pump assembly 842 may be provided as aperistaltic pump or other suitable means of moving fluid through theelongated member 802. The pump assembly 842 may also be communicativelycoupled (via the aforementioned wireless link) to the first light source822 and the second light source 823 such that activation of any one ofthe first light source 822, second light source 823, or pump assembly842 causes activation of the other components. For example, the pumpassembly may be activated when a user actuates a controller 840 a (theterm “controller” also being synonymously referred to herein as a“manual switch”). The controller 840 a may be provided as a pushbutton,toggle, switch, slider, knob, or other suitable means for selectivelyactivating the device.

Upon activation, the pump assembly 842 may display a visual indicatorindicating that the device has been activated. For example, a light 824a can turn on to indicate activation of the device. In some embodiments,the light 824 a is separate from the controller 840 a. In otherembodiments, the light 824 a may be included in the controller 840 aitself. For example, the controller 840 a may be a pushbutton thatlights up when activated and turns off when pressed again.

Upon activation of the pump assembly 842, corresponding visualindicators (e.g., light 824 b as shown in FIG. 15) at the first andsecond light sources 822 and 823 are also automatically activated. Theinfusion line system 800 need not necessarily be activated by actuatingthe controller 840 a of the pump assembly 842. For example, a user mayactivate any one of the first light source 822, second light source 823,or pump assembly 842 to trigger activation of the correspondingindicators (e.g., light signals) in the other components. In thismanner, a user may activate whichever component is closest or isotherwise most convenient to activate, and by so doing can automaticallyactivate all other communicatively linked components of the system.

As shown, the pump assembly 842 may also include one or more stations850 configured to receive light sources 822 and/or 823. The stations 850may be configured as charging ports for charging the internalbattery/batteries of the light sources 822 and/or 823 when they areplugged in or otherwise attached. The pump assembly 842 may itself bepowered by wired connection to a wall outlet and/or may include its owninternal battery.

In some embodiments, the pump assembly 842 includes a speaker 854capable of providing an audible alarm. For example, when a low batterycondition is detected in any of the linked light sources, the speaker854 can be triggered to provide an audible alarm notifying nearby usersof the need to replace or otherwise attend to the components. The alarmmay additionally or alternatively include other indicators, such asflashing lights at one or more of the pump assembly 842 or the lightsources 822, 823, the sending of an error message to other associateddevices, etcetera. Either or both of the light sources 822, 823 mayinclude a speaker, either in addition to or as an alternative to thespeaker 854 of the pump assembly 842. However, a typical embodiment willomit speakers at the light sources 822, 823.

In some embodiments, two or more components of the infusion line system800 are provided together as a kit. For example, the two light sources822 and 823 may be packaged together as a pair. Preferably, the wirelesspairing/linking of the two associated light sources will be establishedprior to packaging, so that the components are ready to use immediatelyafter opening. Pairing/linking prior to packaging can also reduce therisk of error during use, since it will not be necessary for the user tomanually pair one or more pairs of lights during installation oncorresponding infusion lines. In some embodiments, a kit includes a pairof light sources and the pump assembly 842. Again, it is preferable thatthese components be wirelessly paired/linked prior to packaging so thatthe components are more readily used and risks associated with incorrectinstallation or pairing are reduced. Any of such kits are alsopreferably sterilized using a suitable sterilization process known inthe art, such as a cold sterilization process typically used tosterilize pumps and infusion lines.

FIG. 15 illustrates a detailed view of one of the light sources 822.Since each light source 822 and 823 will typically be similar in size,shape, and construction, only the first light source 822 is shown.However, it will be understood that the second light source 823 mayinclude the same components and features as illustrated. The lightsource 822 may include any of the other light source embodimentsdescribed herein. For example, the light source 822 may include any ofthe clip features shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B to enable effectiveattachment to the elongated member 802. In a typical embodiment, thelight source 822 will include one or more internal batteries, thoughother power sources, such as a direct electrical connection to a walloutlet, may additionally or alternatively be utilized.

As with the optional pump assembly 824, the light source 822 includes avisual indicator in the form of a light 824 b and a correspondingcontroller 840 b (also synonymously referred to herein as a “manualswitch”). When the controller 840 b is actuated, the light 824 b isactivated, and the corresponding visual indicators of the othercommunicatively linked light sources (and pump assembly 842 whereapplicable) are also automatically activated. As described in referenceto the pump assembly 842, the light 842 b and controller 840 b may beseparate features, as shown, or may alternatively be combined into onemanually activatable component such as a pushbutton that lights up uponactuation.

Presently preferred embodiments also include a battery protector 852configured to prevent accidental activation of the device and/ordraining of the battery prior to intended use. The battery protector 852may be a thin paper, film, or other such structure that partiallyextends into the light source 822 to break the internal electricalcircuit and prevent activation during shipping and storage of thedevice. For example, the battery protector 852 typically extends acrossa surface of a battery between the battery and the terminal connector.

A portion of the battery protector 852 (the portion visible in FIG. 15)extends beyond the housing of the light source 822 so that a user cangrip the battery protector 852 and pull it away from the light source822. This allows the internal circuit of the light source 822 to closeand allows initiation of the device. Upon initiation, the wirelesscommunication component (e.g., Bluetooth component) of the device willcause the device to search for and seek to establish a communicativelink to its associated components (the other light source and optionalpump assembly). Once all components have been initiated, thecommunicative link will be established and the components will be readyfor use. The battery/batteries may be designed so that light sourceoperation lasts the duration of a standard IV bag, which is usuallyabout 96 hours.

Certain embodiments may be configured so that the visual indicatorsactivate automatically upon initiation. Additionally, or alternatively,activation and deactivation may be selectively controlled throughactuation of the controllers 840 a, 840 b, as described by theforegoing.

In some embodiments, the visual indicators of each set ofcommunicatively linked components have corresponding features todistinguish from other sets of communicatively linked components. Forexample, one pair of linked light sources may have a first color oflight when activated while another pair of linked light sources may havea second, different color of light when activated.

Although the foregoing embodiment has been described with reference totwo light sources, it will be understood that other light sources mayadditionally be included as well. For example, some embodiments mayinclude a series of communicatively linked light sources spanning thelength of the elongated member 802, such as one or more light sourcespositioned at intermediate positions between the ends of the elongatedmember 802.

The articles “a,” “an,” and “the” are intended to mean that there areone or more of the elements in the preceding descriptions. The terms“comprising,” “including,” and “having” are intended to be inclusive andmean that there may be additional elements other than the listedelements. Additionally, it should be understood that references to “oneembodiment” or “an embodiment” of the present disclosure are notintended to be interpreted as excluding the existence of additionalembodiments that also incorporate the recited features. Numbers,percentages, ratios, or other values stated herein are intended toinclude that value, and also other values that are “about” or“approximately” the stated value, as would be appreciated by one ofordinary skill in the art encompassed by embodiments of the presentdisclosure. A stated value should therefore be interpreted broadlyenough to encompass values that are at least close enough to the statedvalue to perform a desired function or achieve a desired result. Thestated values include at least the variation to be expected in asuitable manufacturing or production process, and may include valuesthat are within 5%, within 1%, within 0.1%, or within 0.01% of a statedvalue.

A person having ordinary skill in the art should realize in view of thepresent disclosure that equivalent constructions do not depart from thespirit and scope of the present disclosure, and that various changes,substitutions, and alterations may be made to embodiments disclosedherein without departing from the spirit and scope of the presentdisclosure. Equivalent constructions, including functional“means-plus-function” clauses are intended to cover the structuresdescribed herein as performing the recited function, including bothstructural equivalents that operate in the same manner, and equivalentstructures that provide the same function. It is the express intentionof the applicant not to invoke means-plus-function or other functionalclaiming for any claim except for those in which the words ‘means for’appear together with an associated function. Each addition, deletion,and modification to the embodiments that falls within the meaning andscope of the claims is to be embraced by the claims.

The terms “approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” as used hereinrepresent an amount close to the stated amount that still performs adesired function or achieves a desired result. For example, the terms“approximately,” “about,” and “substantially” may refer to an amountthat is within 95% of, within 99% of, within 99.9% of, or within 99.99%of a stated amount. Further, it should be understood that any directionsor reference frames in the preceding description are merely relativedirections or movements. For example, any references to “up” and “down”or “above” or “below” are merely descriptive of the relative position ormovement of the related elements.

Elements described in relation to any embodiment depicted and/ordescribed herein may be substituted for or combined with elementsdescribed in relation to any other embodiment depicted and/or describedherein. For example, any of the components or features described inrelation to the light source 722 of FIG. 7 may be substituted for orcombined with any of the components or features described in relation tothe IV infusion line assembly 200, and vice versa.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or characteristics. The described embodimentsare to be considered in all respects only as illustrative and notrestrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicated by theappended claims rather than by the foregoing description. All changeswhich come within the meaning and range of equivalency of the claims areto be embraced within their scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. An intravenous (IV) infusion line assembly,comprising: an elongated member having a fluid conduit for administeringtherapeutic fluid to a patient, the fluid conduit configured to providefluid communication between a first end of the elongated member and asecond end of the elongated member; and an optical member disposed alonga longitudinal length of the elongated member, wherein the opticalmember is at least partially optically transmissive to light passedwithin the optical member, wherein the optical member and the elongatedmember are affixed to one another by a bond formed by partial melting ofthe elongated member, the optical member, or both.
 2. The IV infusionline assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical member is affixed along anouter surface of the longitudinal length of the elongated member.
 3. TheIV infusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical member isdisposed along an interior of an outer surface of the longitudinallength of the elongated member.
 4. The IV infusion line assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the optical member is additionally affixed to theelongated member by an adhesive.
 5. The IV infusion line assembly ofclaim 1, wherein the optical member is breakably affixed along thelongitudinal length of the elongated member.
 6. The IV infusion lineassembly of claim 1, wherein the optical member is affixed continuouslyalong the longitudinal length of the elongated member.
 7. The IVinfusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein substantially an entirelength of the optical member is affixed to the elongated member.
 8. TheIV infusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical member isaffixed to the elongated member without clips or clamps.
 9. The IVinfusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein a portion of the opticalmember between a first end of the optical member and a second end of theoptical member is not affixed to the elongated member.
 10. The IVinfusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein the optical member isconfigured to transmit light through a sidewall of the optical member.11. The IV infusion line assembly of claim 1, the optical memberincluding one or more diffraction optical elements (DOEs) thereon, theone or more DOEs being configured to in-couple a light into the opticalmember.
 12. The IV infusion line assembly of claim 1, wherein theoptical member and the elongated member are additionally affixed to oneanother with one or more clips or clamps.
 13. An IV-line identificationsystem, the IV-line identification system comprising: an IV therapysystem for administering therapeutic fluid to a patient, the IV therapysystem comprising: a therapeutic fluid input; a therapeutic fluidoutput; an elongated member providing fluid communication between thetherapeutic fluid input to the therapeutic fluid output; and an opticalmember affixed to the elongated member by a bond formed by partialmelting of the elongated member, the optical member, or both, theoptical member being at least partially optically transmissive to lightpassed within the optical member; and a light source selectivelycouplable to the optical member and configured to provide light to theoptical member.
 14. The IV-line identification system as recited inclaim 13, wherein the light source is selectively attachable to theelongated member.
 15. The IV-line identification system as recited inclaim 13, wherein the optical member is affixed continuously along thelongitudinal length of the elongated member.
 16. The IV-lineidentification system as recited in claim 13, wherein substantially anentire length of the optical member is affixed along the longitudinallength of the elongated member.
 17. The IV-line identification system asrecited in claim 13, wherein a portion of the optical member between afirst end of the optical member and a second end of the optical memberis not affixed to the elongated member.
 18. A method for implementing anIV-line identification system, the method comprising: providing aninfusion line comprising an optical member affixed to the infusion lineby a bond formed by partial melting of the elongated member, the opticalmember, or both; selectively coupling a light source to the opticalmember; and directing light from the light source into the opticalmember, the optical member being at least partially opticallytransmissive to light passed within the optical member.
 19. The methodof claim 18, wherein the optical member is breakably affixed to theinfusion line.
 20. The method of claim 19, further comprising breakingat least a portion of the optical member from the infusion line.